Yuliang Zhang, chairman and president of Greenland Group, said: “Spire London will create a new iconic landmark on the London skyline.

“This tower will be Western Europe’s tallest residential building and underlines London’s enduring status as a world-class city and destination.

“This is Greenland Group’s most important project in Europe, and will deliver exceptional new homes for Londoners.

“Greenland Group operates across four continents and is a global leader in delivering high-rise residential buildings, and has already built or is developing four of the ten highest buildings in the world.”

Daredevil backflips on skyscraper and leaps between buildings

Spire London has been designed by architects Larry Malcic and Christopher Colosimo of multi-award winning firm HoK.

The design is inspired by the nautical history of the site and by the orchid flower, which has been cultivated in China for more than 3,000 years.

Three petals form the spire creating faceted glass facades and nautical style "prow" and "bow" contours.

However some have pointed out it would make a natural partner to the infamous Al Wakrah Stadium in Qatar being built for the 2022 World Cup.

Aerial images have led to it being described as the 'accidental vagina stadium'.